History of Special Education

Brown Vs. Board of Education

1954

In this trial, the Supreme Court decision found that "separate facilities are inherently unequal". This decision was used to influence many future rulings and laws regarding special education and the rights of students with disabilties (mn.gov).

Elementary and Secondary Education Act

1965

This law was passed by Congress with the goal of providing federal funding and resources to school distrcits in order to provide students with disabilities with a quality education. In 1966 a grant program was established to help states achieve this goal and improve special education programs (Education Alternatives, 2016)

Mills vs. Board of Education of the District of Columbia

1972

This court decision stated that no child could be denied a public education due to, "mental, behavioral, physical, or emotional handicaps or deficiences" (mn.gov, 2022).

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 504

1973

This act protects the right of individuals with disabilites in any program or activity that receives funding from the Federal government (ed. gov, 2022).

Individuals with Disabilites Education Act (IDEA)

1975

The Education for all Handicapped Childred Act (later known as the Individuals with Disabilites Education Act) was signed into law by President Ford. This law guaranteed that all children with disabilites would have access to a free public education in the least restrictive environment possible (ed.gov, 2022).

Reauthorization of IDEA

1986

This reauthorization of IDEA focused on early intervention for children born with disabilities. It required that states provide services to children born with disabilities from the time of birth. Prior to this, services were not offered until the child was 3 years old (ed.gov, 2022).

Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act

1990

This act prohibits the discrimination against individuals based on disability by any public entity, regardless of federal funding. This law includes all educational programs and facilities, whether or not they receive federal funding (ed.gov, 2022).

No Child Left Behind Act

2001

This act attempted to ensure that all students receive a quality education. It did this by requiring states to report on the progess of students with disabilites, as well as any other underrepresented groups. In addition, it provided schools with technology assistance and loan programs for education programs (Education Alternatives, 2016).

Reauthorization of IDEA

2004

This reauthorization of IDEA raised the standards for educators teaching special education classes. It required schools to use research based interventions for assisting students with learning disabilities and determining students eligibilty for special education (ed.gov, 2022).